Consultations

Public consultation is a process by which the public’s input on matters affecting them is sought. Its main goals are in improving the efficiency, transparency and public involvement in large-scale projects or laws and policies. It usually involves notification (to publicise the matter to be consulted on), consultation (a two-way flow of information and opinion exchange) as well as participation (involving interest groups in the drafting of policy or legislation).

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Opportunity to involve larger numbers of stakeholders;

Provides written summary of options for consideration;

Provides a questionnaire to collate responses.

If circulating and distributing the consultation document by post is a costly exercise;